The Adderall Shortage: Finding Pharmacies With Supply

The Ongoing Adderall Shortage: Navigating Pharmacy Supply Issues

Adderall, a combination medication containing amphetamine salts, has become the go-to treatment option for many individuals struggling with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. When taken as prescribed, Adderall can be highly effective in promoting concentration, motivation, and impulse control.

However, over the last few years, people taking Adderall have likely noticed it has become increasingly difficult to get their medication. Extended backorders and shortages of certain doses have left many dealing with unrelenting ADHD symptoms due to lack of access. This makes the question "what pharmacy has Adderall in stock?” a common one these days.

Why Are Adderall Shortages Happening?

Though it’s been around since the 1990s, Adderall has surged in popularity over the past decade. Between 2007 and 2017, prescriptions jumped from 5.2 million to 10.4 million per year. This skyrocketing demand is a major contributor to shortages.

Other factors include:

Limited number of manufacturers
Production and distribution issues
Shortages of active ingredients
Discontinuations of certain doses and formulations

Manufacturers like Teva, the largest producer of generic Adderall, have not been able to keep up with increasing prescription rates. This has created the ongoing struggle to obtain medication.

Timing of Adderall Shortages

Shortages seem to occur in waves, often at the end of the year when prescription refills surge. As existing stock runs low, backorders snowball and shortages drag on for weeks or months.

The most severe shortages occurred in 2011 and 2012 when new formulations were rolled out. We are currently in the midst of another far-reaching shortage that emerged in 2021.

Which Formulations Are Affected?

Though all formulations have been impacted to some degree, generic Adderall tablets in immediate-release forms appear most prone to shortages. This includes:

Generic Adderall IR tablets
Generic Adderall XR capsules

While branded Adderall tends to remain more readily available, the significantly higher cost makes it an impractical option financially for many dealing with supply issues.

Strategies for Finding Adderall When Supplies Are Low

When facing the unrelenting symptoms of ADHD without your medication, the question of where you can actually get your prescriptions becomes urgent. Here are some tips for locating Adderall even when shortages are occurring:

Work with Your Prescriber and Pharmacy

Your prescriber and pharmacy should be your first line of defense when dealing with shortages. Communicate frequently with them for updates on availability.

Ask if your prescriber can write for larger quantities or provide an emergency supply until it comes back in stock. Emphasize that you cannot afford to go without your medication.

Establish open communication with your pharmacy’s ordering department. Ask to be notified immediately once your prescription comes in. Be ready to pick it up as soon as it arrives.

Inquire About Therapeutic Alternatives

Discuss whether switching to an alternative like Ritalin, Concerta, Vyvanse, or Dexedrine could provide consistency until Adderall availability improves. However, keep in mind your body may respond differently to alternatives.

Use Pharmacy Locator Services

Websites like Find RX and Good RX offer pharmacy locator tools indicating real-time local availability of your prescription. Be prepared to call around frequently to capture inventory as it comes in.

Ask About Brand Name Availability

As mentioned, branded formulations tend to remain in better supply. If affordable and appropriate, your provider can submit a prior authorization to your insurance requesting coverage for branded Adderall.

Utilize Mail Order Services

Large mail order pharmacies may have better supply than local retailers. Just be aware mail order can take 1-2 weeks for processing and shipping time. Not ideal for urgent medication needs.

Use Compounding Pharmacies

Compounding pharmacies make customized formulations. Though not the identical formulation as Adderall, they can compound an equivalent using available amphetamine salts. This option requires an updated prescription from your doctor.

Order In Advance

Try to order refills as soon as permitted by your insurance to get ahead of shortages. This buys you a 1-2 month cushion in case of delays.

Talk to Your School or Employer

If shortages are impacting your learning or work productivity, discuss the situation with your school administration or employer. Ask for reasonable accommodations like extensions, exceptions, and leave if needed.

Coping Without Medication

Despite your best efforts, you may face periods without your medication. To get through these times:

Stick to routines: consistency is key for unmedicated ADHD management
Reduce distractions by optimizing your environment
Use productivity tools like calendars, alarms, and notes
Exercise daily to stimulate dopamine
Practice mindfulness techniques to increase focus
Tap into support systems, counseling, and coaching
Be compassionate with yourself

While inability to access your prescribed treatment is understandably frustrating, don’t abandon hope. Shortages do not last forever. With enhanced planning and preparation, you can take back control.

FAQs

Why is there an Adderall shortage?

The main causes of the ongoing Adderall shortage include increased demand and limited manufacturing capacity. Adderall prescriptions have risen dramatically over the past decade, but manufacturers have struggled to expand production fast enough to meet this growing need.

How long will the Adderall shortage last?

There is no definitive timeline for when the shortage will be resolved. It has persisted in waves since 2011 with some periods of relief. Your best bet is staying in close contact with your pharmacy and provider for updates on local availability.

Can my doctor prescribe something else besides Adderall?

Yes, you can ask your prescriber about alternative medications like Ritalin, Vyvanse, Concerta or Dexedrine. Keep in mind your body may respond differently to alternatives though.

Where can I find Adderall when supplies are low?

Options include using pharmacy locator tools online, contacting compounding pharmacies, ordering mail order, requesting brand name, and ordering refills early before shortages hit.

How do I manage my ADHD without medication?

Coping strategies include sticking to routines, minimizing distractions, using productivity tools, exercising, practicing mindfulness, and tapping into support systems.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.